It sounded like a problem that a simple search through the forums and the internet would solve, but that wasn't the case at all. All the searches could come up with was "how to get things to snap to a path." Not at all the problem. I've given in and decided to ask the forums with a new question.

The question:
When using the selection tool to move paths how do I get the the path, via nearest node, to snap to the grid?

My problem:
I'm working on project where I'm making a font for use in a logo. I know there may be easier ways, but the way I'm going about making the font is by piecing the letters together using smaller shapes, like outset and inset rounded corners. Those shapes are paths so When I piece the letters together on the grid the paths don't snap to the grid. Are they not treated the same for grid snapping like an object?

A workaround:
While I was experimenting with an answer for myself I figured I could move the shape using the node tool . It works if I follow these steps:
1. Select the path with the node tool .
2. With the path selected, Draw a bounding box around all the nodes to get them all selected.
3. I then would find the node I want to snap and click/drag it to the position on the grid I want that shape. the node will snap to the grid intersection, and the shape will be placed perfectly where I want it.

Clarification:
I have found an answer to my problem, but it just seemed too out of the way for my workflow. Is there a faster easier way to do it?

Which snap tools do you have active?

These function in Object mode:

Snap Nodes or Handles (needs to be active for the following)

Snap to cusp nodes
Snap to smooth nodes
Snap to paths
Snap to midpoints

Funny that's the first thing I do when I install Inkscape on a new computer is activate those but when I actually looked they weren't active. Thank you I knew my problem was simpler than it was. That was definitely the cure. Thank you very much for the help.

Hi.

My experience is that manual editing creates the best pixel fitting, each way of auto-snapping has some artifacts.
Namely the other way you didn't mention, is the pixelsnap extension, that should do this task exactly.
Maybe worth a try.

here's the finished product . use link to view from dropbox.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6hdpahlts3pp4z0/Melon%20Grab%20Logo.png